Mission Viejo's historic move serving as example to other CA cities

After Mission Viejo was selected as the Netherlands Olympic Committee’s (TeamNL) primary pre-games training site for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games, Sports Travel Magazine wrote about this remarkable forward-thinking process that has put Mission Viejo once again on the international stage.

The article notes that while TeamNL was impressed by Mission Viejo’s “fantastic infrastructure,” the team is hoping to embrace and become part of a community over the next four years.

“We were also looking for warmth, for hospitality, and for passion for sports,” said Andre Cats, TeamNL High Performance and Games Director. “And we are very sure that we found that in your beautiful place.”

The General Agreement with TeamNL was signed last week, and once the excitement of the Paris Olympic Games recedes, additional agreements will be developed.

“During a recent meeting, the Dutch gave a presentation that demonstrated the great economic opportunity for the City of Mission Viejo as well as the value they see in engaging with residents and our schools,” said Mayor Pro Tem Bob Ruesch, who signed the agreement.

Facilities in Mission Viejo will serve as TeamNL’s training spots for sports including athletics, swimming, and team sports such as handball and volleyball, among others.

On the heels of the recent TV news coverage and other articles about Mission Viejo’s groundbreaking efforts leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games, multiple California cities have contacted the City seeking advice on how they can follow suit in launching similar efforts.

“What an honor and privilege it is to represent the people of Mission Viejo in the signing of the General Agreement with the Olympic Committee of the Netherlands … this is an effort that will be historical for our City and benefit our community in countless ways for generations to come,” Mayor Pro Tem Ruesch said.